Corona virus update – April 3, 2020

We are trying to update you regularly on the developments surrounding the Corona (COVID-19) virus outbreak and the consequences for the logistics sector.

We realize that this news is subject to change and today’s news may be different tomorrow.

Herewith, we will share the main developments of this week:

Inter-European transports

In order to expedite the flow of cargo throughout Europe, the European Commission has requested all 27 member states to create fast lanes at border crossings. These so called “green lanes” should filter out cargo transports from civilian transport, thus limiting delays at the border to a maximum of 15 minutes.

Furthermore, the recommendation is to only use digital transport documents (E-CMR). In order to simplify the border check, but also from a hygiene point of view. Physical documents can, unfortunately, accommodate the spread of the virus. But for now, the E-CMR can only be used in the Benelux. (Belgium, Netherlands, Luxembourg).

Lockdown

In addition to India, Canada, South Africa and large parts of the United States, Mexico, Nigeria, and Curacao are now also on lockdown. We expect more countries will follow suit.

We are looking into the effects on the Logistics sector, and recommend you to stay in close contact with your buyer, to see if the can receive the cargo you intend to ship.

USA

Despite the fact that the virus is quickly spreading throughout the USA and a large number of cities are on lockdown, all shipping terminals are fully operational. Therefore we can ship your cargo to the USA as usual.

Imports from the Far East

The demand for goods from the Far East has dropped greatly, which has resulted in the carriers initiating more blank sailings in April.

Air freight

At this time most airports can be serviced, although there are serious space constraints and the prices have been driven up.

A number of airlines are now using passenger planes for cargo flights, and the number of flights to and from Europe is going up. This increase in capacity will hopefully give some relief.